I wanted to read this book because I've been to Cooperstown; and while knowing the town is not necessary, it certainly enhanced my enjoyment of the novel with my being able to visualize the streets, etc. in my head (especially since it's such a novel of 'place' -- another element that appeals to me). While this novel isn't 'great literature' (and why should it be!), I do think it's a 'literary novel'. But most of all, it was fun and inventive and smart, and I enjoyed the whole experience of it.